The deadline for this year’s urban and community grant program is March 3, 2023.
Submissions are being accepted for Chesapeake Bay Grants.
Since it began, the urban forestry grant program has provided $1.98 million for 637 grants and planted 17,000 trees. In 2022, the Delaware Forest Service provided $140,451 for 31 tree projects in the First State.
de.gov/treegrantdashboard
Trees provide people with many natural benefits: cleaner air and water, reduced storm-water runoff and soil erosion, and priceless natural beauty. Trees have been shown to improve property values and enhance community well-being. That’s why the Delaware Forest Service is committed to help cities, towns, and neighborhoods throughout the state to improve their overall tree canopy through its annual urban and community forestry grants.
Delaware’s Urban and Community Forestry Program offers annual grants up to $5,000 for tree planting or tree management projects on public land. Grants are open to all Delaware municipalities, homeowner associations, and certified 501(c)(3) non-profits, including schools and churches. Grants require a 50-50 match in either cash (non-federal funds) or in-kind services, which can include volunteer or staff time, equipment rental, or supplies. Requests range from a minimum of $500 to a maximum of $5,000 in only one of two project categories: tree planting or tree management, which can include a professional tree inventory, hazardous tree removal, or pruning. All applicants must schedule a site visit with Urban and Community Program staff to review their project. Site visits must be scheduled at least one week in advance.
Applications are judged by a committee of the Delaware Community Forestry Council. Eligible projects must be performed on public lands within the community. Priority will be given to first-time applicants, Tree Friendly Communities, and projects with a focus on promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Grants at a Glance
- Matching grants from $500 up to $5,000
- Requires a 50-50 match in cash (non-federal funds) or in-kind services
- One project in one category: tree planting or tree management
- Project must be on public land or open space
- EIN Number required – no payment to individuals
- Site visit by urban forestry staff must take place before project submission
- Site visits requested at least a week ahead (Email UCF Program)
- The deadline to apply was March 4, 2022 at 4:30 p.m.
Guidelines and Forms
Resources
- Recommended Trees (webpage)
- Recommended Trees List 2021 (PDF)
Partner Grants
The First State Resource, Conservation and Development (RC&D) Council offers mini-grants up to $500 to further its mission to “Provide leadership, initiative, technical support, and direction in developing and carrying out a plan to assist individuals and communities in the conservation and enhancement of their human and natural resources” and to work towards our vision of “prosperous diverse communities effectively developing and conserving the human and natural resources of the First State RC&D Area.” Examples of funded projects include urban farm and community or school garden initiatives, invasive species management, establishing or improving community recreational areas, establishing pollinator habitat, or installation of rain gardens.
Resource Links
Urban Forestry Program Contacts
Additional Resources
As part of its mission, several informative publications, resources, and links are available to help with proper planning and developing effective strategies for tree planting, care, and management.